PSJA ISD Educator awarded 2024 Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award

Alamo- The Humanities Texas organization has honored Mónica Alvarez Suárez, an educator at PSJA Memorial Early College High School (ECHS), with the prestigious 2024 Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award. This annual award recognizes exemplary contributions by K–12 humanities teachers across Texas. 

Each year, 12 outstanding teachers are selected to receive a $5,000 cash award, along with an additional $1,000 for their respective schools to purchase humanities-based instructional materials. Alvarez Suárez will receive $5,000 for her achievements, while PSJA Memorial ECHS will receive $1,000 to enhance its humanities courses and programs. 

"It was a hectic morning when I received the white envelope from Humanities Texas. I was nervous and excited, with a million thoughts running through my mind as I struggled to open it. When I read the word 'Congratulations,' I shrieked with joy,” said the PSJA ISD educator. 

According to Alvarez Suárez, being the recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award is an honor that fills her with gratitude and pride. 

“It seems surreal to me, being selected for this prestigious award, but I feel completely blessed to be able to do what I love, teaching about my culture, language, and heritage,” she said.  

Since joining PSJA Memorial ECHS in 2019 as a Spanish department teacher, Alvarez Suárez has taught Spanish III AP and Spanish Literature classes. This year, she expanded her role to include teaching the Mexican American Studies Dual Language course.  

"PSJA ISD is proud of Ms. Alvarez Suárez for being selected for the Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award, which recognizes exemplary educators throughout Texas,” said Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias. “This is a testament to her commitment and dedication to her profession and her students." 

                                                              ### 

About Humanities of Texas 

Humanities of Texas, founded in 1973, advances education through programs that improve the quality of classroom teaching, support libraries and museums, and create lifelong learning opportunities. The organization strengthens Texas communities by conducting and supporting programs that cultivate the knowledge and judgment essential for democracy.